A Gem to Remember

Van Cleef & Arpels unveiled its new high-jewelry collection to the international press and VIP clients in Paris in July, presenting a mouthwatering selection of large, colorful gemstones and diamonds in imaginative and sometimes flamboyant designs. The spectrum of colored gemstones harks back to the brand’s roots; it was established over a century ago when Estelle Arpels, the daughter of a precious-stone merchant, and Alfred Van Cleef, the son of a lapidary, married. The French jewelry house was born with a specialty in seeking out not only the finest gemstone specimens, but those with a unique and captivating character.

The Pierres de Caractère Variations line features several collectible stones, such as a 9.03-carat D IF type 2A diamond in the Ancolie Précieuse ring, surrounded by pear- and round-cut diamonds and a border of bright-red rubies. A pair of earrings is composed of two vivid orangey-yellow diamonds weighing a combined 9.04 carats, another ring showcases a rare 27.81-carat Colombian emerald, and the Oriental Princess necklace features an elaborate 42 rubies from Mozambique with a total weight of over 40 carats. But it isn’t always about the most precious stones—the house also seeks materials for their color, luster, and uniqueness. The Sea Side ring, for example, combines turquoise reminiscent of a blue lagoon with a 5.34-carat yellow diamond representing the sun. The collection will tour several key international cities this fall. (877.826.2533, www.vancleefarpels.com)